Air Source

Switching from your traditional heating system to an air source heat pump can result in massive energy savings.

Heat pumps have an average coefficient of performance (COP) of 350%. This means that they produce 3.5 kilowatts of heating or cooling power for every 1 kilowatt of electrical energy they consume. Given that conventional gas boilers have a COP of 70-80%, air source heat pumps are the undisputed winners in the heat pump vs. gas debate when it comes to energy efficiency.

Cooling using heat pumps is definitely an option... but for most people is a false economy or a bit of a fad. Putting cold water through a radiator doesn't make much difference to the ambient temperature in a room - unless it is fan assisted. Many people ask us about this, in most cases if you're looking for a cooling system we often recommend standard air conditioning as a straightforward way to cool a space 

One of the first things homeowners are concerned about is the initial heat pump system investment. Interestingly, heat pump systems are not as expensive to install as many people think. And, after the initial outlay, the energy savings that come with the system will, in the long run, nearly always outweigh the initial cost of a heat pump.

Plus who wouldn’t like to increase the value of their home? Air source heat pumps have been proven to add significant value to a property. Should you want to sell your home several years down the road, your heat pump system will be one of the major selling points.

Heat pumps don’t directly use combustion when generating heat, therefore there aren’t any carbon emissions. The only carbon emissions experienced in the use of heat pumps are at the point of electricity production. Even then, the amount of electricity used to run the compressor is very little.

Air source heat pumps often use either R32 or R410A refrigerant, which is sealed inside the unit, much like with a standard refridgerator in a kitchen. When it comes to the heating your home, heat pumps are the most eco-friendly option in the market at the moment.

A heat pump system does not burn anything to provide heat in your home. Therefore, there’s never any risk of carbon monoxide from the system filling your indoor air. And unlike air conditioning systems, heat pumps don’t dry out the air, so there’s a better balance of humidity and comfort in your living space.

Heat pumps tend to "hold" a property at the desired temperature rather than rely on spikes or bursts of heating (normally morning and evening). Holding a building at a constant temperature in this way is the best way to ensure your home and it's contents are protected from constant changes in temperature

Once you’ve installed a heat pump system, how much work should you put in to make sure that the system stays in top shape for a long time? Fortunately, heat pump systems are a lot easier to maintain than combustion heating systems.

Firstly, heat pump systems usually come with a warranty of up to seven years. Their workmanship warranties can also last for years, and you can often opt for a warranty extension for a fee. Should the system develop a problem, the warranty takes care of it.

The typical air source heating system requires a professional service every year. Such regular maintenance is enough to make the system operate for 25 years or more.

All heating products make some noise, but heat pumps are usually quieter than fossil fuel boilers. A ground source heat pump may reach 42 decibels, and an air source heat pump may reach 40 to 60 decibels, but this depends on manufacturer and installation.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is an upfront grant of £5,000 for Air Source Heat Pumps or £6,000 for Ground Source Heat Pumps to contribute towards the cost of installation. It is available for all homeowners.